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MisdemeanorCalifornia · Penal Code § 242/243

Battery

Touching someone in a harmful or offensive way on purpose.

Less serious. Up to 1 year in county jail.

What the prosecutor must prove

They must prove every one of these. If one is missing, you should not be found guilty.

  1. 1You touched someone on purpose.
  2. 2The touch was rude, angry, or harmful.
  3. 3You had no legal excuse.

Possible punishment

Up to 6 months in jail and/or up to $2,000 fine. More if the person was hurt badly.